Network Rail has awarded Atkins the Signalling and Power & Distribution contracts as part of the Cardiff Area Signalling Renewal (CASR) project.
This four-year scheme will see Atkins design, manage and implement the replacement of life-expired signalling and associated power and distribution equipment across 192 route miles of track between Newport and Port Talbot, covering the Vale of Glamorgan and Valleys areas.
A technically challenging project, CASR is one of the first major schemes to use latest innovations such as plug couplers and Frauscher train detection technology to help save time and money.
Douglas McCormick, managing director of Atkins’ UK rail division said: "These contracts are an important win. CASR will be a great challenge for our team, but I know they will deliver a high quality result that will benefit the people of South Wales. This is a great multidisciplinary project, characterised by technical excellence and intelligent engineering."
Atkins will deliver this comprehensive signalling project through five separate commissionings and carefully managed stage works to minimise passenger and freight disruptions. The team will:
- Install an electronic crossing controller system
- Fit three new signalling centre workstations with associated Automatic Route Setting Control System at the Cardiff Control Centre
- Work collaboratively with Invensys to deliver eight Westlock interlockings
- Deliver an improved power and distribution system
The first phase of works is due to commission in 2013 with the entire project due for completion in 2015.